Synopses & Reviews
Featuring an extra-sturdy library binding! Here is a spectacular and informative guide to the history of the great Chinese empire and the customs and traditions of its people. Stunning real-life photographs and lifelike models offer a unique "eyewitness" view of life in imperial China, from its earliest beginnings in the Bronze Age to its final days in the early years of the 20th century. See the stunning bronzework of the ancient Chinese, an early irrigation machine, a set of antique acupuncture needles, the beautiful implements used for Chinese calligraphy. Learn why the First Emperor created the terra-cotta army, what kinds of goods were carried along the Silk Route, who invented paper, how a Chinese house was constructed, why tombs were filled with pottery figures, and what a civil servant's job entailed. Discover why emperors were known as Sons of Heaven, what kinds of weapons were used in early battles, why families worshiped their ancestors, how fishermen used bivas to catch fish, and much, much more.
Review
The folks at DK have almost singlehandedly rejuvenated if not reinvented the often moribund world of non-fiction books for children. [Eyewitness series] (Newsweek)
Review
...a mini museum between the covers of a book. [Eyewitness series] (The New York Times)
Review
These books' striking visual impact will draw in even the most casual readers. [Eyewitness series] (School Library Journal)